Sonel Dinusha Wins ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award

Sri Lanka’s rising Test batter Sonel Dinusha has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for August 2026, following a remarkable run of performances against India.

The award is the first ICC monthly honour of Dinusha’s career, highlighting his impressive rise on the international Test stage.

Dinusha was Sri Lanka’s leading run-scorer in the two-match Test series against India, finishing with an outstanding 420 runs from four innings, including three centuries and a half-century.

In the first Test in Galle, despite India securing a 165-run victory, Dinusha produced two impressive performances with the bat. He scored 100 runs in the first innings before making 84 in the second.

He continued his outstanding form in the second Test, scoring 103 in the first innings and an unbeaten 133 in the second innings. His unbeaten century played a key role in helping Sri Lanka secure a draw.

Dinusha was also named Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution in the second Test.

Speaking after receiving the award, Dinusha said that being recognised at international level so early in his career was a special moment for him.

He described the series against India as one that would always hold a special place in his heart, adding that scoring three centuries felt like a dream come true.

The young batter also said that performing in front of Sri Lankan fans in Galle and Colombo made the experience even more special.

Although the overall series result was not what Sri Lanka had hoped for, Dinusha said he was proud of the team’s fighting spirit, particularly in the second Test.

He also expressed his gratitude to his parents, teammates, coaches, friends and everyone who had supported him throughout his journey.

“This is not my achievement alone. This belongs to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey,” Dinusha said.

With only limited Test experience, Dinusha has already made a significant impact for Sri Lanka and continues to establish himself as one of the country’s promising young batters.